Srinagar, Feb 19 -:- All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) Chairman, Jagmohan Singh Raina, has urged both majority and minority communities to coexist in peace and harmony to expose extremist elements and prevent them from inciting tensions among different communities.
Following a joint meeting of APSCC members from both Kashmir and Jammu divisions, Raina emphasized the importance of minority communities living in harmony with the majority. He stressed that any challenges faced by minority groups can only be effectively addressed when they work in collaboration with the majority community.
“There is no denying the fact that extremist elements exist in every community. It is imperative to expose such individuals so that people become aware and these elements are isolated. The responsibility is even greater for minorities, as they rely on the majority community for support in resolving their issues,” Raina stated.
He lamented that extremist factions are attempting to tarnish the nation’s image and disrupt its secular fabric for their vested interests. He emphasized that India’s strength lies in its diverse coexistence and called for mutual respect among people of all faiths.
“It is unfortunate that some politicians exploit such situations for their own gains. India has always been a pluralistic society where people freely practice their religions. Politicians should abandon divisive tactics and work towards uniting people of different faiths,” he added.
Raina expressed his disappointment over the continued non-recognition of Sikhs as a minority in Jammu & Kashmir, despite fulfilling all necessary criteria. He criticized the current administration, including former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, for ignoring the concerns of the Sikh community.
He also demanded due recognition for the Punjabi language, which he claimed has been neglected following the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by senior APSCC leaders, including Ajeet Singh Mastana, Jaipal Singh, Sardar Rajinder Singh, Sardar Gurdev Singh, Jagjit Singh Sudan, Navtej Singh, Dr. Rekhi, Davinder Singh, and Lakhvinder Singh.
